The controversial method of extracting fuel from shale won’t be taking place as a result of the government carrying out a scientific evidence-based approach, as well as extensive engagement and consultation with communities across Scotland.

In a statement to Parliament, Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy, Paul Wheelhouse, clarified that the current moratorium will stay in place indefinitely, and that “fracking cannot and will not take place in Scotland.”

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She said: “It has long been my personal opinion that fracking poses serious risks to health, communities, and our environment, and the overwhelming majority of the feedback I have heard from my own constituents is that they would not want to see it take place here.

“The Scottish Government’s evidence- led and consultative approach, in stark contrast to the gung-ho approach of the Tories in Westminster, has now also come to the conclusion that it cannot be proven beyond any doubt that there is no risk to health, communities or the environment, and that there should be no fracking in Scotland.

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“I strongly welcome the news that a full ban will now be put in place on fracking in Scotland and I look forward to voting in favour of this when it comes before Parliament.”

In June last year, North Ayrshire Council passed a motion opposing fracking.

Dr Maggie Keegan, head of policy, Scottish Wildlife Trust added: “Ruling out fracking in Scotland will help meet our international obligations on climate change.

“We need to focus our resources on developing renewable energy and other low carbon technologies, and restoring natural carbon stores including woodlands and peatlands, rather than investing in another fossil fuel.”

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Elisabeth Whitebread, energy campaigner at Greenpeace UK said: “The Scottish Government ban on fracking is a huge win for thousands of people who campaigned against fracking for six years.

“Unlike Westminster, Holyrood is listening to public opinion. We already have more gas than we can afford to burn, and as well as damaging the climate, fracking will cause local noise, air and light pollution.”